Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has expressed optimism that India will participate in the Champions Trophy in Pakistan next year, emphasizing the positive vibes from the Indian government and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Akram believes that India’s presence would be a significant boost for cricket and Pakistan.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has proposed hosting all of India’s matches in Lahore, which is close to the Indian border, to facilitate logistics and security. The PCB has also pledged to provide 17,000 visas to Indian fans.
Akram highlighted the importance of people-to-people contact in the current era of social media negativity. He believes that India’s participation would foster goodwill and promote cricket.
India has not played an international match in Pakistan since 2008, and the UAE is considered a potential alternative venue if any part of the Champions Trophy is moved out. However, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has stated that the tournament will not proceed without India’s involvement.
The Champions Trophy will feature eight teams, including Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, and South Africa. The tournament will be played in a group stage format followed by semi-finals and a final.
